It all started when in the 70’s my dog Nate got out for the umpteenth time. I went to the Royal Oak Animal shelter, to bring him home. My cat Paleface, Noir’s mommy was there, and was going to be euthanized. I took her with my dog Nate home. I had her for 22 years when she passed on. My Paleface, I told her all my problems nightly. Her son Noir, was born in my son’s bed the first day he went to kindergarten. Named Noir because he was black, we did not want Smokie, Midnight etc. He has been thru a lot, 3 moves and his family coming and going in his life. He is now blind and diabetic. He purrs when I pick him up, still likes to eat, and meows out loud every so often! I love him and every day is a blessing as long as he feels well. In honor of his birth from a shelter cat, his momma ,, please give to Puffy Paws of Englewood, Fl.. Puffy Paws does not euthanize, ever. Puffy Paws, take all kinds of kitties, sick, old, blind and other unwanted kitties. Please, Please let them become part of your giving life. http://www.puffypawskittyhaven.com/id313.html

Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) is a form of Autism that is in the mild end of the autism spectrum. Similar to other forms of autism, AS is characterized by deficits in social communication, social interaction and imagination, but usually have average or above average IQ levels. People with AS always think literally, have little to no clue about facial expressions, tone of voice, and gestures. They find other people difficult to ‘read’ (Theory of Mind), hence may view others’ actions as confusing and also fail to behave in socially appropriate ways. Most conversations with them are one-sided, with them leading and rarely taking your opinions. Finally, they stick to their routines and have a special interest that they may excell on.

So, break out your crayons, paint or video camera and find your most creative way to thank the 1800 Blue Star Museums for giving military families free admission from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

The rules are simple:

There are two categories to choose from: (1) artwork or video short (no more than one minute max!) inspired by your visit to a Blue Star Museum or (2) artwork or video short (no more a minute in length) that expresses thanks to the art community who made the program possible.

Entries will be judged based on their overall appeal, quality, creativity and incorporation of the Blue Star Museums star in the artwork or video.

Include your name, email and phone number, as well as your parent(s) name and…

Paul is only 23, and he’s amazing. He was diagnosed with a deadly heart condition four years ago, but he battles through it with a smile. He’s smart and creative — we just self-published a story he wrote, and he’s working on a sequel. He loves his nephews. And the whole family loves him.

I don’t know how to tell my son that his doctors refuse to give him the operation that could save his life.

Dear Lord – help me to be present today with friends, family and students. I can be so distracted with things that creep into my world and ‘shake it up’ a bit. Help me to put all other “things” on hold – take a deep breath and relax for the moment, fully concentrating all my thoughts and focus on the here and now. Everything else can wait. Amen.

I believe that it is a choice to focus on living in the present – wherever I am – I want to be fully there.

When was the last time you had to get a hold of your thoughts and tell yourself to relax, focus and just be there?